Just over 40 years ago, the last ever public performance was given by the CWS (Manchester) Band.
Although its heyday under the baton of Alex Mortimer had long passed, they were still one of the most famous names in the banding world and one of the last links to an era of commercial sponsorship that saw brass bands used as an active part of business promotion.
Time and place
It took place at Dobcross Band Club on 31st March 1985 and followed the decision made by the CWS Board of Directors to end financial support for the band that had been in place in some form since the turn of the century.
Led conductor Derek Garside, who for many years had been their star principal cornet, it was enjoyed by a packed audience in what appeared to be a haze of cigarette smoke, accompanied by the familiar chinking sound of pint glasses and supportive chatter, led by compere Marjorie Fielding.
Led conductor Derek Garside, it was enjoyed by a packed audience in what appeared to be a haze of cigarette smoke, accompanied by the familiar chinking sound of pint glasses and supportive chatter4BR
Ample entertainment
The band provided ample entertainment too — from the opening 'Prelude for an Occasion' to the finale of 'The Queen of Sheba' and the formality of 'The National Anthem' to close.
There were also features from all their main soloists — Stephen Corbett (cornet); David Brookes (soprano); Roy Garlick (horn); Bernard Logan (baritone); Russell Marsh (trombone); Peter Bromley (euphonium) and Phil Goodwin (Eb bass) as well as band classics such as 'Hungarian Rhapsody', 'The Shipbuilders', 'New World Fantasy' and 'Tournament for Brass'- and even a short break for the all-important announcement of the raffle.
There are also short speeches from Phil Goodwin (later of Black Dyke) and Derek Garside.
